What Is VoIP? How Does It Work?

VoIP stands for Voice Over Internet Protocol, and refers to a system whereby voice signals are converted into digital data that can be sent over the internet, allowing users to place telephone calls with an internet connection rather than a traditional phone line. Using an IP Phone, a VoIP adapter called an ATA, or your computer, VoIP software breaks the sound of your voice down into packets of data and sends them to either another VoIP user or a traditional telephone user. (Click here for more information about VoIP equipment.) By signing up with a VoIP provider, you can get full-featured phone service at a low monthly rate.

VoIP has a number of advantages over traditional phone service, including increased functionality like advanced voicemail, call forwarding, and call hunt. The service is also can be significantly cheaper than comparable traditional phone service, and often includes unlimited minutes for calls within the United States as well as very reasonable international calling rates.

Most people with a high-speed home internet connection will be able to get VoIP with very little work by adding a simple VoIP adapter provided by their VoIP company. For more information about setting up a basic VoIP connection, check this post. In addition to the VoIP adapter, using VoIP requires wired, high-speed internet and one or more standard phones. For businesses, some VoIP companies recommend IP phones in place of the VoIP adapter and standard phone.

Have more questions about VoIP or VoIP service? Check out our detailed reviews, the comparison chart, and the FAQ section. You can also read through our previous blog posts about VoIP or leave us a question or comment in the comment fields below.

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